Which do you think would be cheaper, replacing the steering wheel or getting it reapolstered? The leather on my black/red steering wheel is scratched to hell. Is it me or is the leather really soft?

 

Here in Jacksonville, FL, I couldn't even find anyone that would do my old Grand Cherokee steering wheel. Luckily I got warranty to cover it.

Our steering wheels do scratch easy. Always ensure that you don't have your pocket knife, cell phone etc. on you when you get in!!

 

The first scratch I put in steering wheel was my own stupidity. The clip from pocket knife cause the wheel and left a long rut; so I switched pockets. But I've found it doesn't matter what it is, anything abrasive will scratch the leather on the wheel. 90% of the wear on my steering wheel is from my jeans.

I know it's not just a leather thing because my Integra had a leather wheel and after five years it looked new.

 

I have 33k+ miles on my '04 and the leather wheel cover is like new. I would suggest purchasing a lace-on leather wheel cover. I bought one for my Expedition for $40 plus shipping and it is perfect. Of course, once it was on and I was satisfied, I didn't save the receipt, but you can Goggle "leather steering wheel cover" and find a number of vendors. They come in a selection of colors.

 

the problem with buying one of those covers is that they 90% of the time look ugly and make your car look bad. even tho they do the job. im goin thru the same thing on my steering wheel and i ve been afraid of even mention the problem to mazda.

 

Well, I am sure that the skill of the installer of the aftermarket leather wheelcover is significant. This was the first time I laced on a leather wheel cover.

It is not perfect. It took me 30-40 minutes. More time and care may have eliminated the creases at the wheel spokes. But I am satisfied...at least on the SUV.